Serbia asks EU for help: footage from the Deliblatska Sands Nature Reserve is sad (PHOTO)

Serbia has requested assistance from the European Union amid severe wildfires raging in the Deliblatska Pescara nature reserve in northeastern Serbia, according to Luka Čaušić, head of the crisis management sector at the Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs. The request was made under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, which coordinates international aid during emergencies. Čaušić confirmed that residents in nearby settlements are currently safe, though conditions in the affected area remain volatile. The fires have been burning for approximately two weeks, with more than ten forest fires active across the country. In Deliblatska Pescara alone, flames have consumed over 3,500 hectares of land. The situation has prompted authorities to seek urgent support from the EU, highlighting the scale and intensity of the blaze. Čaušić noted that the rapidly changing conditions in the nature reserve forced officials to reach out for international help. He emphasized that the fire's unpredictable behavior posed a serious challenge for local responders. Despite the efforts of nearly 400 personnel from various services, including firefighters, the situation remained critical. Firefighting operations have involved both ground and aerial resources. Fireboats, helicopters, and even a Russian Iljušin anti-fire aircraft have participated in containment efforts. The latter arrived three times to assist in extinguishing the flames. However, these measures have proven insufficient against the sheer size and ferocity of the blaze. In response to the emergency, Serbia has formally requested additional equipment and personnel from the EU. This includes aircraft capable of carrying more than ten tons of water, five helicopters equipped to transport over four tons of water each, and ten specialized vehicles designed for desert terrain. These assets would significantly enhance the capacity of local firefighting teams to combat the ongoing crisis. The Deliblatska Pescara nature reserve is one of Serbia’s most ecologically significant areas, known for its unique sand dunes and diverse wildlife. The destruction caused by the fires threatens not only the environment but also the region’s tourism industry, which relies heavily on the reserve’s natural beauty. Authorities have stressed the importance of maintaining safety for local communities while working to contain the fires. Although no injuries or fatalities have been reported among residents, the proximity of the flames to populated areas has raised concerns about potential risks. Emergency services continue to monitor the situation closely and adjust strategies as needed. The request for international aid underscores the severity of the current wildfire season in Serbia. With temperatures rising and dry conditions persisting, the risk of further fires remains high. Officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities. As the situation develops, the Serbian government is coordinating with EU partners to secure the necessary resources. The response time and availability of international support will play a crucial role in determining how effectively the fires can be controlled. Meanwhile, firefighting crews continue their efforts on the ground, battling the flames with whatever means are available.